Senior Formulation Chemist

Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Baytown (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the lubricant industry seeks a senior formulation specialist to develop and optimize formulations for industrial applications. The candidate will be responsible for project planning, compliance with regulations, and providing technical support. This role requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, along with extensive experience in R&D and lubricant formulation. Strong technical skills and a collaborative mindset are essential for success in this innovative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field required.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in lubricant formulation or R&D.
• Strong knowledge of tribology, base oil chemistry, and testing methods.

Responsibilities

• Design and refine lubricant formulations for industrial applications.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analyze results on formulations.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations (ASTM, ISO, REACH).

Skills

Tribology

Base oil chemistry

Additive interactions

Laboratory testing methods

Data analysis

Formulation software

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Lab software tools

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Formulation Development: Design, develop, and refine lubricant formulations to meet performance, regulatory, stability, and cost objectives for industrial and specialty applications.
  
• Project Planning & Execution:Define development timelines, project scope, and technical goals. Plan and execute experimental work according to project timelines.
  
• Testing & Analysis: Conduct laboratory testing on raw materials and finished products, including viscosity, oxidation, thermal stability, and tribological performance. Analyze results and iterate formulations as needed.
  
• Scale-Up & Production Support: Collaborate with production and quality teams to ensure successful scale-up and manufacturing of newly developed products.
  
• Regulatory & Industry Compliance:Ensure all formulations comply with ASTM, ISO, REACH, and other relevant regulations. Support documentation for SDS, regulatory submissions, and technical data sheets.
  
• Innovation & Research:Stay current with industry trends, scientific advances, and emerging technologies. Attend technical conferences (e.g., ASTM, STLE, NLGI) and apply new insights to product innovation.
  Supplier Collaboration: Work closely with raw material suppliers to validate and approve new chemical components and improve formulation performance.
  
• Documentation:Maintain accurate records of formulation procedures, testing protocols, results, and intellectual property data for patent filings and internal reference.
  
• Technical Support:Provide expert guidance and troubleshooting support to internal teams during production and product application.
  
• Compliance & Safety:Uphold Soltex's standards for safety, quality, and ethical conduct in all laboratory and production activities.

Required:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in lubricant formulation or R&D (preferably more for senior-level consideration).
• Proven knowledge of tribology, base oil chemistry, and additive interactions.
• Strong experience with laboratory testing methods (ASTM/ISO), formulation software, and data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across functional departments.

Preferred:

• 15+ years of experience in lubricant formulation and commercialization.
• Background in synthetic and bio-based lubricants, emulsions, or water-based chemistries.
• Familiarity with metalworking fluids, greases, or industrial process oils.
• Knowledge of polymers, surfactants, and oil-soluble additives.
• Experience in product lifecycle management, including documentation and regulatory approval.

Technical Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Comfortable with lab software tools and formulation databases.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.